PUCO approves seven Ohio crossing projects

CSX will install flashing lights at the State Route 18 grade crossing in the city of Defiance. The railroad will also install flashing lights and gates at the St. Peter Road/Township Road 96 grade crossing in Big Spring Township, Seneca County.

Wheeling & Lake Erie Railway will install flashing lights and gates at the Fairway Plaza Drive grade crossing in the city of Akron, Summit County.

Youngstown & Austintown Railroad will install flashing lights and gates at the Hazelwood Avenue grade crossing in the city of Youngstown, Mahoning County.

The railroads will be responsible for completing construction of their projects by January 9, 2015. Funding for the upgrades will be provided by federal funds.

Separately, PUCO approved an agreement between the Ohio Rail Development Commission (ORDC), CSX and the village of Columbus Grove in which CSX will install active grade crossing warning devices at the Pearl Street and Broadway Street grade crossings. The Maple Street grade crossing will be permanently closed. CSX should complete the project by April 9, 2015. Funding for these upgrades will be shared among e PUCO, ORDC, CSX and the village.

To increase public safety during the construction of the projects, PUCO will assist the local governments with the cost of improvements, such as rumble strips, illumination, improved signage or other safety enhancements at the project locations. Funding for the improvements will come from the State Grade Crossing Safety Fund and will not exceed $5,000.